Spirit Week 2010
Students who participated accordingly to the theme of each day won points for their class during spirit week.
Culture Small Small Small
Small Talk
Talk Talk Talk
What were your thoughts on this year? “I think that this year I learned a lot of things ... not just about school but about people, being a better friend and being a better person.”
If you could have anything in the world what would you want? “A BMW 330 SI two-door hardtop convertible, and to end world hunger.”
Natalie Hall (10)
Who is a person you’d like to meet? “I wouldn’t really want to meet anyone. Because, what if you met them and they turned out to be disappointing?”
What is your most embarrasing moment?
What is one thing you would like to do before you die? “I’d want to know that I really
changed someone’s life for good, like I really helped them out.”
“In the 2nd grade, my class took a trip to the beach and I lost my swimming trunks in front of the girl I liked after a big wave pulled them off.”
If you could be any superhero who would you be? “I’d want to be Hancock because his powers are pretty awesome.”
Josh Lopez (9)
What was your favorite TV show growing up?
What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
“Spongebob Squarepants.”
“I went paintballing at Lake Elsinore ... shirtless.”
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Boom Boom Pow Kristoffer Malapira, pg 6 Music and Lyrics Lorelei Sinco, pg 7 Are You Full of Red Bull? Tony Hernandez, pg 10 So Long Farewell Kelsey Hebard, pg 12
Features
Fun in the Sun! Justin Massey, pg 8 Ridin’ Dirty Branden Lai-Lau, pg 18 Tips for the Youngin’s Shane Quitania, pg 20 Preparing for the High Life Bryan Anamuro, pg 21
Culture
Campus Happenings Reem Blaik, pg 2 Small Talk Branden Lai-Lau, pg 3 Senior Tribute Charnay Jones, pg 5 Ask Peaches Drawings Charnay Jones, pg 16 Poetry Charnay Jones, pg 17 Briefs Branden Lai-Lau, pg 22 Campus Happenings Reem Blaik, pg 23 Gallery Reem Blaik, pg 24
Editor Charnay Jones Photo Editor Reem Blaik Reporters
Justin Massey Lorelei Sinco Kelsey Hebard Shane Quitania Branden Lai-Lau Bryan Anamuro Tony Hernandez Kristoffer Malapira
Sponsor Danelle Taylor Publisher Bob Dennis, principal Printer Loma Linda University Printing Services
Address
Loma Linda Academy A Seventh-day Adventist School 10656 Anderson St. Loma Linda, CA 92354 mirror@lla.org
T h e Mirror is printed on 100% recycled paper. T h e Mirror staff welcomes signed letters to the the editor. All unaccredited photos and illustrations by Reem Blaik
Jaimie R, I lived with her for a few days when my dad was in the hospital -Michael Elhard. CB and his awesome ties-Austin Siagian. Chandler Rundle he’s my brother-Chiara Rundle. Caroline Mooney, she is such a positive person, always happy-Alyssa Cheng. Zach Cruz he’s been like an older brother to me ever since I came into highschool-Erika Sormin. Nathan Lee, He is sexy. He is my hero. He is SA president-Chris Min. Erick Aumentado, he is my bro -Chris Aumentado. Katrina Kim, she’s funny and always there when I need her-Jane Kwon. Ryan Elssmann, best friend of 13 years -Miles Pretorius. Victoria Lowe, she’s my big sister and watches out for me -Nathaniel Morlock. Jay Tolentino, it won’t be the same if he’s not around. He’s been a best friend & a brother -Danielle Santiago. Matt Neufeld, he has so much swag its crazy and he taught me how to be swagalisious- Chris Lawrence. Taylor Roberson keeps me in check-Aquila Hopkinson. Josh Hanapin, he’s like a brother to me- Jeff Hanapin. Christine Jacob, she’s the first one I met in Jr. High and she always makes my day if I feel a little down -Nadinne Malimban. Esther Estanque, she is beautiful person on the inside & out-Hazel Lopez. Natalie Cadavid, she always shares a smile with me and makes the campus happier for me -Aneliis Reid. Sharla Chang, she’s super smart & super nice & I love her-Joy Kim. Rory Macomber, he is awesome and he is my brother. He also plays the bass well -Maddi Macomber. Aldrich, he’s like my dad at school & he’s loud -Tori Siagian. Catherine Kelly, my sister, I won’t see her much in college, I love her mucho- Oliver Kelly. Henna Khan she is my sister and best friend. She is growing up so fast and I wish her the best in college. Love you Henna! -Waffa Khan. Chrsitina Stream she is my sister and friend. And she’s an awesome person -Alexandra Stream. Niqui Jones, her kindness and generosity -Leilani Ortiz. Edelyn Kumendong, she inspires me and is my piano buddy! -Yvonne Bui. Brandon Rawson, now there’s no one who can protect me from mean children -Zach Rawson. Debbie Church, she is so happy and funny and just puts a smile on your face when you’re around her -Danny Escobar. Angela Santos, she is nice to everybody and a good sport in soccer with everyone -Chloe Diaz. Andrew Colon, he always gives me a hug when I’m sad -Natalie Hall. Amber Narmore, she’s my sister and she has always been there for me, and has always helped me out -Summer Narmore. Tofu, he is my brother and he’s cooler than fire! -Timothy Ebuenga. April, because she has a beautiful voice -Trudy Wang. Reyna, she was my first friend when I came here! Thank you Reyna and love you! -Lisa Drury. David Ramos cause he is so good at soccer -Jason Daniel. Alex Bradley, my golf bro, and chauffeur this golf season -Steven Zezima. Laurel Enix, we shared the funniest laughs during our Pro Musica Tour -Ramiro Lopez. Mary Ellen has been there for me through everything. I love her so much and I’ll miss her like crazy -Lexi Baker. Charlie Davis, her constant smile and happiness is a well of inspiration - Jason Webster. Ileana Castenada she is just so funny and always made me laugh. You will be missed -Nicole Komar. Shasta Fabella and Katie Dailey they’re the best roommates ever & we love them so much -Michelle Ocampo. Abby Gaurino cause she’s my inspiration, she pulls me through, and that epic beauty will be missed -Nick Deleon. Kirsten Manolo, she’s so nice and considerate and always there to talk to. -Bryanna Mercado. Justyne Marin, she’s so hip -Kimberly Marin. Laura Robinson, shes my sister- Greg Robinson.
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ecently in April and May, Loma Linda Academy’s various music groups toured around the nation to display their talents and come together as a group. The annual tours are the highlight of each music program and a great way to end a year. The music departments go on yearly tours as both a final test and a gift to the students that have worked and persisted all throughout the year. Michelle Ramos (12), a flutist and New York native, went with the Loma Linda Symphonic Band that traveled to New York City and Philadelphia from May 2-10, and was glad to go back to her home state. “Going back was such a fun and heartwarming experience.” LLA Consort, the school’s string orchestra, went touring around Southern California from April 23-26. The group performed for various churches, including the Glendale City Church, the Garden Grove Church, and the Orange SDA church. Consort’s final performance was at Disneyland, where they also got to spend their final day. The Symphonic Band played their first tour performance at the USS Intrepid, a United States aircraft carrier, after sightseeing such places as the Rockefeller Center, and the carrier itself. Another highlight was performing at North Eastern Academy, a Christian high school, where the band received an enthusiastic reception. “I had such a great time,” said Bianca Magallanes (10). “The audience was so upbeat, they even sang along to some of our songs.” The next day, they travelled to Philadelphia and played at Blue Mountain Academy, a Christian boarding school, where they got to perform for the students and meet new people.
Boom!
The group’s final performance was on Sunday, May 9, where the band played at Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, for a pre-game performance. With temperature in the low 50s, and high winds, the band walked out in short-sleeved polo’s. Lorenzo Sanchez (9), had a blast during the performance. “It was so cold during our performance. Parents had to hold our music because it was so windy! It was one of my favorite performances.” Many students, if not all, look forward to the tour as a way to relax and share time with their friends, and even make new ones. The experience also brings the students and directors closer together. Giovanni Santos, Director of Bands at LLA, lead the Symphonic Band to NYC. “The long bus rides, staying at hotels, all the performances—we have to go through them together. And, it always brings everyone closer together.” Much planning and care goes into every tour to make sure everything happens according to plan. Before each tour, the director makes a proposal to the school board as to where their musical group can go. Then, the director makes final arrangements to make sure everything goes according to plan. Each national tour costs approximately 700-800 dollars per student and upwards to about 2,800 dollars for international trips. Jannel Lamangan (12) said she loved everything about the symphonic band tours. Because of tours, she got to experience brand new things. Jannel, along with all the other members, will never forget it.
— Kristoffer Malapira
Music and Lyrics
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oma Linda Academy’s (LLA’s) music program has always been one of the highlights of the school’s history. The two choirs, Canticles, which anyone can join; and Pro Musica, and audition-only group, have been able to perform in illustrious places and tour all over the world in countries such as Europe and Australia. Through the years, LLA’s choirs have gained such a great level of musical ability that the individual groups’ reputations precedes them at their performances, encouraging large crowds of people to attend. “Canticles is a good training ground for group singing,” says Calvin “Knippy” Knipschild, the director, separated the two choirs, Canticles and Pro Musica, so that each could stand on its own. Canticles used to go on tour with Pro Musica as a mass choir where the latter was usually featured, until this year when Canticles was given the opportunity to go on their own to San Francisco from April 15-18. Even though it was their first tour in six years, their ability to connect with their audiences didn’t go unnoticed, and at their final performance, the audience showed its appreciation through a standing ovation. Chris Min (11) says, “It was cool to see how we moved so many people.” The tour not only offered the students a chance to witness for God, but it also brought the group closer together.
Victoria Delote (10) says that during tour, the students bonded as a group and were given the opportunity to form new friendships with people that were also in the choir. Overall, Canticles’ tour was a big success and they are looking forward to see what next year has in store for them. “Pro Musica is the crème de la crème of LLA,” says Knipschild. In search of a sound that can reach the caliber of college groups’, Pro Musica is more prone to accept upperclassmen. After being asked about her first tour, Stephanie De Mel (9) answers, “It was intimidating at first because I was with a bunch of upperclassmen.” This year, Pro Musica’s four-performance tour took place in and around the area of Dallas, Texas from April 21-26. April Vassantachart (12), a four-year choir member, wanted this tour to be special for the new members, remembering how her first tour was for her. It’s special not only because you get to travel with a group of people and perform, but you get the chance to bring people closer to God. “It’s the thrill of a lifetime to direct the talent that is there”, says Knipschild. And as another eventful year comes to a close, the returning members look forward to what next year has in store.
— Lorelei Sinco
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FUN A
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s the school year draws to a close and classes begin to hit the end, students are more than ready to get a start on their summer plans and vacations. The atmosphere around the end of the year at Loma Linda Academy (LLA) is mixed depending on who you are talking to. Freshmen are finishing off their first year of high school, wondering if their next school year will be just as amazing or even better. Sophomores are moving into the stage of their high school experience where they are just starting to look at colleges, a scary thought for some here at LLA. The Juniors are amped and excited to finally be moving into their final year of school by becoming Seniors; while the departing Seniors are in disbelief that four years have passed by so quickly, looking towards their graduation with great joy and sadness. Whatever the case, a summer awaits us all. And while there may be the individuals who have their entire summer planned out; some may be finding themselves saying, “Now, what am I going to do?!” The area in which we live in offers a great deal of things that we can take advantage of while on break. California is unique in the sense that you can literally be at a crossroad and have the choice to choose to go to the beach, dessert, or mountains. It has much to offer to its residents and visitors. Spending vacation does not have to be expensive or have to be extravagant, it in fact, can be as simple as a trip to the beach. “I am going to try to go to every SoCal beach before summer is over!” said,
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Edelyn Kumendong (12). The beach is quite a popular choice when one is needing a place to hang out with friends or family. “I spontaneously go to the beach with whoever I can find,” Montana Tsai, a senior at Glendale Adventist Academy. The beach is a quick and fun fix to summer boredom, however, some would not find it as their main source for fun during their summer break. Clarissa David, a senior at Glendale Adventist Academy; voiced that, aside from spending time with friends and family, she’d like to get better at playing bass guitar by taking a few lessons before heading up to PUC and possibly taking a road trip with a few friends. So basing your choices of what to do off your interests is a good way to start on making plans for the upcoming break. But what if you’re just bored and lazy? What then? “Go find a hobby, like surfing or rock climbing or scrap-booking or.. something! Call up some amigos or go be the next Michael Phelps. Have fun!” said, Myjelia Velasco (12). Countless students have already planned out activities they’d like to take part in during the summer, but something always seems to come up impeding them from doing so. Thinking of what to do in the first place may be a trouble for some people. There are things one could do by just staying local. A popular venue that is been hosting teenagers in recent months has been frozen yogurt places. Perfect examples would include Yogurtlicious and Nubi Yogurt. Both of which are popular places to get yogurt and spend time with friends. Some people have a preference of what they consider their “go-to” when it comes
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to their frozen yogurt. “I prefer Nubi Yogurt because it stays frozen longer and doesn’t get all slushy at the bottom fast.. and it’s made from milk from California cows! Happy yogurt comes from happy cows,” said Ferrenstein Hutagaol (11). On the other hand, Lexi Baker (11) states, “I like Yogurtlicious more than Nubi, the staff at Yogurtlicious are much more friendlier and it’s a bit of a more nicer place to chill and hang with friends.” Sometimes the line drawn that differentiates the two is not based on the staff’s friendliness or the atmosphere, it’s the toppings that catch the crowds. “Nubi always has my favorite toppings blueberries! Yogurtlicious always tells me they’re out of season kind of lame,” Jane Kwon (11). Another place that has been drawing people in recent months is Cue Studio located at Diamond Plaza in Rowland Heights, Diamond Bar. Cue Studio, or commonly referred to as “Cue,” is a place with various Japanese photo-booths that one can purchase from. After taking about a dozen or so photos, the customer goes to the front of the booth to a touch screen with a stylus and then begins to adorn their photos with little notes and ornate decorations. It is a bit out of the way though for some, seeing as it is in Diamond Bar. “If you’re just going out there just for Cue, it isn’t worth the drive. Diamond Plaza has much to offer, it has many stores and restaurants to enjoy along with Cue,” Chandler Yen (11). Some appealing aspects of Cue are that it is not something that people normally do when they choose to go out, as opposed to just going to eat or going to catch a movie. “It
appeals to me because its something different. There isn’t a Cue in just ANY mall,” Fabiola Prasetio, a Senior at Redlands High School. Now, if paying to take pictures plus a drive out to Rowland Heights is too much effort or an added expense; there are places in Redlands and other areas to photograph for free. One such place would be Prospect Park at the theater. People are drawn to this area is because “it has a modern and urban vibe about it that people like,” Larry Ong (11). Many people enjoy going on photoshoots to visually tell a story about their day and their activites. Another location suggested by Andrew Lloren, an alumni from the class of ‘09, was a hilly area in Oak Glen. “People like that there are tall mountains in the backgrounds of their shots which makes for a breathtaking shot,” said Lloren. As for the modern and urban vibe, Lloren suggested being in the downtown San Bernardino area on Sundays as there is no one there, thus making it easy for those unique “middle-of-the-street” shots. So whether you are planning to go to the beach, eat some yogurt, or take a few pictures. Our surrounding area has something for the average bored student to go out and do. It just takes a little bit of thinking and planning with friends or family to figure out. Simply said by Velasco, “Don’t just stay home and sleep everyday!”
—Justin J. Massey
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Are You Full... C
affeinated beverages are consumed widely around the United States and have become a pertinent issue in many schools, concerning students’ wellbeing, and could also be of concern at Loma Linda Academy (LLA). Highly caffeinated beverages, such as energy drinks, have grown immensely popular since the start of the decade, and sales continue to skyrocket. For a small percentage of consumers, energy drink consumption is considered an almost daily routine to delight in, and are sometimes even taken more than once a day purely out of enjoyment. For others, it seems to serve a more practical purpose to help maintain and keep alertness, at least for a short while, when one needs to stay awake, either in school or even in a particularly stressful job. One of the biggest questions over the large-scale production of energy related products pertains mainly to the specific elements present in them that produces the desired, powerful results. Although the list of ingredients differ for each product, the basic, rudimentary elements from drink to drink remain relatively the same. According to the research conducted by the Marin Institute, a consumer watchdog group, the short bursts of en-
ergetic stimulation one obtains are typically from the presence of caffeine in combination with slightly varying types of vitamins and herbal supplements, specially chosen by the manufacturer. The end result is the creation of an extreme boost, waiting to be harnessed by a craving consumer. This feeling of sudden stimulation, however, is only temporary, and is soon to be followed by a period of physically and mentally draining side effects. Often called a ‘crash and burn’ or just simply a ‘crash’, this series of adverse effects consumers may feel after their blast of energy is often characterized by excessive sleeplessness, and feelings of irritability and nervousness. Other effects can include a minor physical or mental breakdown from the resulting caffeine withdrawal and dehydration; in some cases it has even lead to tragic results. Several countries, such as France and Great Britain, have even put several laws and practices into effect, purely on the basis of health, to help relinquish any future incidents related to overconsumption of caffeinated beverages. One’s sudden urge to head over to the local convenience store and buy a case or two may be attributed to the constant stream of advertising by companies enticing consumers. According to Red Bull’s marketing team,
of Red Bull? which makes extensive use of commercial and outdoor advertising, the main demographic they strive to reach are men and women in the range of 17-30 years of age. According to research and consulting company Nutrition Business Journal, statistics indicate Red Bull holding the dominant position of the industry with 46.6 percent of annual energy drink sales, Monster with about 14.4 percent, and Rockstar in third with about 11.4 percent of the market. While companies that produce energy drinks have worked tirelessly to expose their product to the public, at large, the influence of family and friends may be even stronger. Often more powerful than the brilliantly thought-out marketing campaigns, influence from peers is one of the final factors that may drive one to pick up a can. Seth Gaona (12) says he has felt the influence to try an energy drink. “I feel pressured when my friends are at Toad’s [gaming center] and we need to pull an all-nighter,” commented Gaona. “Usually afterwards I drink a ton of water to flush out my system so I can continue owning [playing].” The biggest concerns over consumption of caffeinated beverages mainly preside over the long-term effects on health-both physical and mental. Although a casual drink of Red Bull or Monster every now and then seems harmless, many consumers are unwary
of becoming obsessive. One factor often overlooked that can lead to excessive consumption of highly-caffeinated beverages is depression or any mood changes, in general. Kunal Patel (12) believes that mood often does play a role in encouraging one to pick up an energy drink. Patel said, “It depends-if you’re depressed you might have the sudden urge to drink lots of caffeine, and even when you’re happy. It can go either way.” There are, however, plenty of healthy ways to stay alert, motivated, and focused throughout a busy day without the use of such beverages. In fact, health experts agree that routine exercise in combination with a proper diet, a full night’s sleep, and several glasses of water daily supplies one substantially with all he or she needs to last through the day. Health officials interviewed by MSNBC, encourage substituting highly caffeinated drinks with more nutritious beverages, preferably containing a sufficient amount of electrolytes. In a constantly moving world, filled with busy lifestyles, energy drinks are often looked upon for that extra boost. If one looks, however, he or she may just be surprised to find plenty of healthier alternatives to take on the day.
—Tony Hernandez
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So Long, Farewell
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s the 2009- 2010 school year at Loma Linda Academy (LLA) comes to a close, changes are taking place in the lives of students as well as several faculty members who are planning their farewells. The end of a school year brings up a wide, but familiar collection of emotions; excitement for the approaching summer break, relief that big projects and tests are complete, and sadness for the end of a memory filled year. The conclusion of this school year is definitely bittersweet for Lionel (former History teacher, current Work Experience and Testing Coordinator) and Grace Ballou (Drawing and Painting Teacher), Dr. L. Roo Mckenzie (Head Principal), David Burishkin (Physics and Algrebra I Teacher), Calvin Knipschild (Canticles and Pro Musica Director), and J’Leen Saeger (Spanish II Teacher), the departing faculty. The decision to leave a place you have known for many years, or even a few, is often difficult to make. Some of the faculty have been working together for 25 years or more, which makes it that much more difficult; “schools don’t usually have that,” said Burishkin. For the Ballous, who have worked at LLA for 33 years, the choice to retire was obvious yet not any easier. For Saeger, the departure comes only afer a year. The verdict of these departures is saddening to all involved, yet the plans the teachers have for the future is cause for excitement. Saeger will be mov-
ing to San Antonio, TX to work as an Adjunct Professor at Wayland Baptist University. The Ballous, however, will be enjoying more time at home “playing art,” Grace Ballou, and “gardening and reading as much as I want,” Lionel Ballou. They are definitely excited for the relaxation ahead, but also know that it will be a bit “lonesome,” Grace Ballou said. After 29 years at LLA, Burishkin plans to, “take it easy. I want to make sure I watch my health and keep ahead of that.” He will also be popping in to class every now and then to help with labs. He will be volunteering, which will be nice because he will just get to have fun and not deal with the tests and homework. Mckenzie will be taking on the job of Pastor Advocate for Christian Education Evangelism for the Southeastern California Conference. He hopes to find a way to make Christian education available to all children. Knipschild’s decision to retire after six years of directing at LLA was influenced by his desire to “start dating” his wife again. They will be moving to Washougal, WA into a house they designed, to be near their grandchild. LLA holds a multitude of memories for students and teachers alike. Saeger’s favorite memory is from the week after faculty week of prayer when she received an anonymous gift everyday. She said, “Most of them had to do with
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something he will miss witnessing as well as the K through 12 assemblies and the energy that comes along with all the students. Burishkin had fun going on the trips to Lake Havasu with the students, watching the sports every season, and his favorite memory, “When the school had a pep rally for me and they all wore t-shirts with my face on them; that was really nice.” He says he will miss the students but also the school who was really supportive of his classroom, “they would say, ‘get what you want,’ and they would pay the bill,” this allowed him to get all of the amazing equipment used in the Physics classes. Burishkin recalls when a past student came to visit and informed him that La Sierra had just gotten the same equipment that LLA had obtained years before. Along with the memories made at LLA, the retiring and leaving faculty has also learned a thing or two from the students. “No matter what awful thing happens it will get better, there will always be a better day,” is a lesson Lionel Ballou picked up. Knipschild learned, “that anybody can do a good job if they try and believe in themselves,” among other attributes like patience and perseverance.
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twinkies and I love twinkies.” She also enjoyed, “learning how to talk like a teenager,” and learning slang like, “get up off my swag, or step off my swag, no hop off my swag, and stop sipping on my haterade.” Watching their kids go to high school are the most cherished memories for the Ballous. “Backpacking with the kids [students] one weekend out of every month and seeing the grandkids here and hearing them say, ‘grandpa!’” are some of Lionel Ballou’s beloved memories. The Ballou’s are both grateful that the school was so supportive of them and allowed them to have music and pets in class as well as being able to feed the students. They were also able to always teach close to each other, which they are so thankful for. “We are best friends and have been for so long because we are together all the time,” explains Grace Ballou. Knipschild is going to miss being around teenagers and the friendliness, creativity, and energy they have. His greatest memory from the time he has spent at LLA, “Getting Canticles to a level where they are able to go on tour by themselves this year—I am very proud of them.” For Mckenzie, whenever a student gets baptized is his “highest joy.” It is
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J’Leen Seager
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Mckenzie and the Ballous had a similar conclusion to what they learned from the students; that whatever someone may look like, how many piercings they have, or what they wear, you cannot tell what kind of person they are until you get to know them. Burishkin learned something new every day, “as long as you’re listening, you learn a lot like who is in love with who.” He also had a student recently that found the specific heat of gold on their cell phone, “that’s about the only good reason to have a cell phone in class.” In every changing situation, words of wisdom can be found. Lionel Ballou would like to leave the students with, “the assurance that they are in the right place,” and the advice, “the future belongs to those who prepare for it, but you should still also have some fun and be a kid.” Grace Ballou added, “but don’t do foolish things that are permanent.” Saeger leaves us with a Spanish phrase to translate, “¡Vaya con dios!” “I feel very fortunate that I could end my career here at LLA; the students have blessed my life abundantly,” said Knipschild, who would love to be able to direct his students in heaven again someday. His advice to all students, “salvation is not a game, make sure you have a relationship with Jesus.”
Mckenzie offers similar but just as powerful words, “God is the piece of the puzzle that finishes it. He is the most important piece; if he is missing then life is unfinished.” “Things happen for a reason, the Lord takes care of you, and look and see where the Lord is helping you, you gotta look,” are words to live by from Burishkin. He has learned these to be true from experiences comparable to one where he met a man from Oklahoma who renovates gym floors, at a gas station the same week the academy was beginning to renovate theirs. The guy ended up helping out with the LLA gym floor because Burishkin met him. “Grace Ballou, I will miss her creativity and Lionel, the bounce in his walk,” said Bonnie Pernula (Administrative Assistant). Calvin Knipschild’s professionalism and outlook on music ministry is something she will miss. She adds that she will also miss, “Dave answering a question with a question, and listening to Saeger’s enthusiasm while she teaches.” Bonnie has been Dr. Mckenzie’s secretary for 14 years and wishes him well, “it’s been a journey.” Above all else she will miss all their friendships.
—Kelsey Hebard
Culture
Ask Peaches I
think ou should take some time to seriI’m attracted to ously think about it. Don’t make a hasty decision that you will regret. people of the same Once you think you have come to a gender. What do conclusion talk to someone who you I do? look up to and whose opinion you truly value. Make sure you trust this person and tell them this is a serious topic. Also be safe in whatever you choose!
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ne of our teachers confronted me about drugs. I have never done anything, should I confront them or tell a principal I am being falsely accused?
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ou need to explain yourself to that teacher in private so they do not get the wrong perception about you. If they do not believe you and you feel offended by what the teacher is saying, then that is the time you can take it to the principal.
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ou should solve o my the issues that ex-best friend is you guys were going trying to become friends through. If you guys with me again, but I know were really bestit’s just because her friends friends your problems should not get are leaving next year, in the way of your what should I do? friendship. Just because
she had friends in another grade that may be leaving also does not mean she did not want to be your friends during that time. Do not hold grudges; make each others high school experience the best you possibly can.
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Drawings
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Poetry Photographers
The Electronic Age
Every second that passes by Flies away without a goodbye A moment that’s frozen in time Whether posed or covered in grime We treasure each of the smiles Each picture taken is worthwhile Taken so we can remember Those fun times back in December Carefully focusing the lens To freeze the smile of some friends Taking photos is what we do So smile and let me take a picture of you
What will we be thought of? We prosper not We dream not We care not, nor love We are as robots In a world of robotics In a world of electricity Yet where did Elemental Electricity go? It is defeated by synthetics Nothing is real any more, In this Electronic Age.
-Andrew Pang
-Ryan Beauchemin
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Fast, fun and an adrenaline rush. All these words could be used to describe one sport in particular, dirt biking. A relatively new sport, it has taken off in the past few years and has developed a fairly large fan base. In fact, there are quite a few students at Loma Linda Academy (LLA) that share an interest in the sport. They vary in the level they ride, some competitively and others beginner, but they all enjoy taking part in this challenging and exciting activity Trevor Ohm (10) enjoys dirt biking because it is something most of his family is into. He started riding when he was three and has progressed a lot since then. He took part in competitive races held at local tracks until he was injured in one of them. “When that happened my parents put a stop to that, but I’m trying to convince them to let me do it again.” The same goes for Lexi Elssmann (10) who says she enjoys dirt biking
because it is something she can do with her family and friends. Many kids are also discovering dirt biking because of the social aspect of it. Kids from different places and schools come together at tracks all over SoCal to practice, ride competitively, or just ride for fun. While there they get the chance to make new friends with their fellow riders, team members, or even competition. It leaves them with a bigger circle of friends and can even turn the most shy kids into outgoing people. Ohm also said that he has met a lot of people through dirt biking and has many friends that do not go to LLA that dirt bike. He said that one of the key aspects of dirt biking was the unity of the sport. “It’s just not as fun when you’re alone. The best times I have are when a bunch of my friends. I go out to the desert, bring some coolers, and just ride until we get tired.” The only negative aspect of the sport was that it is an expensive one to maintain. Dirt biking is an intense sport that demands for the rider to be physically
fit, focused, and most of all safe. According to www.cdc.gov, 56,870 riders under the age of 19 were treated for injuries sustained while participating in off-road biking. Some riders are under the impression that they are ‘to good to fall,’ or that as long as they wear a helmet and do not attempt crazy stunts they will be fine. But the reality is that they are under a huge risk just by getting onto the bike. In fact, cdc.gov says that many of the injuries occur while the rider is going off a small jump, or when they are just speed biking. Ohm, who has gone to the ER multiple times, broken a collarbone, and suffered other injuries from biking said that the best way to avoid injuries was to “be safe, and not try and do stuff you’re not confident about.” He also said, “Even when you’re just riding at the track, you have to pay attention to the people around you at all times. Because even if you’re a good rider, others might be really reckless and do things that could really mess you up.” He said that wearing the proper equipment was a necessary precaution. Dirt biking requires countless pieces
of equipment. Along with the basic items like helmets, gloves, goggles, boots, and pads; there are more advanced articles that have specialized functions. For example, one fairly new invention is a brace that will stop the rider from breaking their neck, resorting to breaking their collarbone if they fall hard enough. Dirt bikers say it is an amazing sport that is catching on at record speed. It has already made a huge impact in the world of sports, and is only continuing to grow. Ohm says that he hopes it will spread to LLA’s campus, and that one day LLA will have a dirt biking team of its own.
—Branden Lai-Lau
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Feature “I remember I was running to class” said Koby Heramil (12) and somebody “saw me running, and [they were like] ‘Dude , just chill, relax, calm down’ and I was like ‘I have to get to class! I have to do this!’ and it didn’t really occur to me until junior year and then now senior, that what’s the rush? Class will be there, I will get to class, I will get an education.” This is one of the main tips Koby Heramil (12) received when she was a freshman. After four years of hard work, Heramil and some other seniors have their own advice to give to the underclassmen. When drama, stress, and relationships begin to take over one’s personal life, there is one thing that most upperclassmen have in common that has helped them survive high school—their amazing friends. “You get smart friends [to] help you do your homework and other friends make it so you want to come back the next day because sometimes I hate to come to school... friends make it better,” explains Nikita Thomson (12). On the other hand, Charlie David (12) said, “When you have a problem and you can’t talk to your parents because something might go wrong, you can always talk to friends...they are people you can trust and you can rely on.” Heramil said her friends helped her along the high school journey. She said what helped her was “I had really good friends, who taught me that being friends with everybody and just having a good time, is the most remarkable thing you can ever do in your high school years. She said to just enjoy
yourself and not care what anyone else thinks about what your doing. High school is full of new experiences and lessons to learn that will follow a person into the real world. For success in the academic world, Thomson said “Don’t be lazy. Study. Keep your grades up; it’ll help you later on. Don’t just start junior year, start freshman year and keep going.” Richie Dien (12) said, “be nice to everyone and turn everything in. Just take all the classes you can [and] no study halls. Though high school may be filled with fears, uncertainty, and doubt, it is best to face it with a brave and genuine heart. “Don’t drop [out] of school and just don’t quit, don’t give up. Don’t pretend to be someone that you’re not. I see a lot of freshmen that try to be like all cool and all but you don’t have to be that way...if [you’re] really scared, don’t be afraid to show that you are scared, because you can get help, so don’t be afraid,” advises David. It is not easy to pass all four years with the same people and campus, but through it all it could be the most memorable times in your life. Heramil said, “So to you underclassmen, just slow down and enjoy high school. Get your work done, get good grades, but don’t make that your first priority, make like having fun and just enjoying senior year, at the same time, getting your good grades, because that’s what I did and it turned out for the best.”
—Shane Quitania
Preparing for the High Life College is just around the corner for the class of 2010 and some seniors may feel as if they are not fully prepared to take the steps needed to survive in college. For an academic boost in college credits, April Vassantachart (12) talks about taking a summer college credit class that is enjoyable to the person so it is not a burden. She suggests a class like General Psychology or a language course that is not too burdensome. For those who are going far from home or to other states for college, other more materialistic items may seem needed. Jay Tolentino (12) is planning on taking a laptop with a webcam so he can communicate through Skype with his family and friends. Tolentino adds, “That way, you can see them more than just on school breaks.” If college tuition is becoming a burden, there are still many opportunities to receive financial aid. Websites such as fastweb.com and studentscholarshipsearch.com are a database of scholarships full of money waiting to help any student thinking of going into college. Another way to get money for college would be to get a job during the summer to help with tuition. David Bowen (12) says “I’m looking for a job in the summer so it can ease the load of
PUC’s tuition on my family. I want to help them out.” Certain schools like PUC, offer to pay $.50 to the dollar of what you earn if you work at Pines Spring Ranch during the summer. This tends to be an enticing offer because if you make $3,000 in the summer and turn that to PUC for tuition, they will give you $1,500 to help with tuition. Certain items are deemed necessary to college survival. Risa Baroi (‘09) recommends bringing a laptop to help with notes and for typing papers. “My laptop has helped me to stay organized and to be on-time with papers[...] I am really glad I have one up here to help me.” Whatever the case may be, whether seniors decide to go to college locally or afar, they can take steps to be assured that their future is safeguarded. For those who are anxious for what tomorrow may bring, just remember Loma Linda Academy (LLA) has prepared each and every student to strive for higher ground. Lynne Hattendorf, LLA guidance councselor says, “By the positive feedback we get back from our alumni and the universities, it is evident that our students are able to compete and excell in even the most competitive schools.” —Bryan Anamuro
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Culture
Brief s The Loma Linda Market introduced its new cafe on May 5, 2010. The Cafe features items such as smoothies, tea, coffee, pastries, wraps, salads, and soups.
Justyne Marin (12) was recently awarded second place in La Sierra’s 2010 Writing Scholarship Competition. She was given $5,000 for her academic paper entitled “White.”
On May 12, the Life Stream blood drive was held in Franz Hall. Many students participated in donating their blood.
The last Beach Vespers of the year was on May 14. It was the annual “Buns N’ Roses” theme and marked the end of Spirit Week.
May 11-14 was Spirit Week. Tuesday was western theme, with students wearing cowboy hats, bandanas, flannel shirts, blue jeans, and boots. Wednesday was bring a stuffed animal day, with the drill competitions falling on Thursday. Lastly, Friday was Hawaiian Day, where students wore Hawaiian shirts, beaded necklaces, Hawaiian skirts, leis, and flip flops.
Drill Competition 2010 Drill teams from each class competed in the annual drill competition on Thursday, May 10.
The Gallery
Justyne Marin, 12th
Kobe Heramil, 12th
Karina Cervantes, 12th
photography I
Joshua Kim, 9th
Kyle Ilio, 10th
Amanda Santa Maria, 10th